I was thinking about this question today and was curious why everyone out there chooses to drink tea over other options? So if you have the time, please share with us why you choose to drink tea over other options and where it ranks on your beverage list?

I like the idea of man cultivating nature in such a humble way that we brew leaves and make a delicious liquid. The taste is the number one reason, and not just taste of tea. So far during my short year long tea journey I'm amazed at how much my taste buds have evolved. I can't stand any junk food or anything nuked with additives anymore. I'm by no means a healthy person, but I find myself going for more natural food.

The cultural aspect is another big plus. Inevitably, you not only learn about tea, but about the places and people that produce it.

tecnanaut wrote:I like the idea of man cultivating nature in such a humble way that we brew leaves and make a delicious liquid. The taste is the number one reason, and not just taste of tea. So far during my short year long tea journey I'm amazed at how much my taste buds have evolved. I can't stand any junk food or anything nuked with additives anymore. I'm by no means a healthy person, but I find myself going for more natural food.

The cultural aspect is another big plus. Inevitably, you not only learn about tea, but about the places and people that produce it.

Yep, I have heard several others comment about how drinking tea has improved their palate. I feel the same way as now I can't help but feel like I am taste testing everything I eat and drink.

I could give a lot of answers, (brewing is fun, I have a serious case of TAD, it's a healthy alternative to juice/pop, it's a backlash against coffee culture) and all would have some level of truth in them.

I'm passionate about my hobby's--whether it is homebrewing, sushi or tea. I love the culture behind tea. There are so many types, varieties, history, etc. But, personally, drinking tea helps me to focus. It has become a habit. In the morning, it helps me wake up and when I'm working on something really stressful, it helps me to calm down and focus on a task.

caulfield wrote:But, personally, drinking tea helps me to focus. It has become a habit. In the morning, it helps me wake up and when I'm working on something really stressful, it helps me to calm down and focus on a task.

I like this feature also. I can see why it was so popular with Buddhist Monks, poets, scholars, factory workers, etc. in the past. It really does calm you down and allow a relaxed focus.